Lafayette Hotel & Suites in San Diego, building in San Diego, CA
The Lafayette Hotel & Suites in San Diego is a historic hotel building on the National Register of Historic Places, built in 1946 as the Imig Motel and distinguished by its colonial architecture with symmetrical forms and brick walls. The property includes a swimming pool, a large ballroom, 141 guest suites named after film stars, and multiple dining and bar venues.
The building opened in 1946 as the Imig Motel, developed by businessman Larry Imig and designed by architect Frank L. Hope Jr., drawing inspiration from American colonial architecture. In 1949, Conrad Hilton purchased the hotel, renamed it, and expanded it into a glamorous destination for celebrities, before the construction of Interstate 8 in the 1960s led to a decline in business.
The name Lafayette reflects the colonial architectural style of the building, inspired by early American homes from the 18th century. Visitors can see the symmetrical forms, brick walls, and classical columns that define this place as a historic location rooted in American design traditions.
The hotel is located on El Cajon Boulevard in the North Park neighborhood, easily accessible by public transit and nearby parking. The area offers walkable shops, cafes, and local events, making it a good base for exploring San Diego.
The hotel was used as a filming location for the movie Top Gun, with scenes shot in the Mississippi Room, the original dance hall. Additionally, the swimming pool was designed by Johnny Weissmuller, the famous swimmer and actor, highlighting this place's connection to the entertainment industry.
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